Memorable Moments from the 2026 Grammy Hall of Fame Gala Featuring Janet Jackson, Heart, Lucinda Williams, and More
Janet Jackson & Jimmy Jam Accept “Rhythm Nation 1814” Award
Janet Jackson attended the Grammy Hall of Fame event to accept an award for her iconic album, Rhythm Nation 1814, alongside co-producer Jimmy Jam. Expressing her gratitude, Jackson remarked, “I’m so grateful and honored that Rhythm Nation is being recognized tonight in this wonderful, wonderful way. It’s beautiful to relive the memories attached to this project that’s so, so precious to me tonight.”
Jackson spoke passionately about the album’s enduring impact, stating, “Rhythm Nation still resonates on a deep and profound level. It’s an ongoing force that fights bigotry and promotes understanding. It cannot be stopped. It’s simply too strong, too positive.” She emphasized that the movement transcends all backgrounds, appealing for love free of judgment.
Continuing, she shared her hopes for a world “free of fear and despair,” adding, “The prayer driving this remains exactly the same — that peace prevail. May the music of Rhythm Nation continue to bring us together in peace, and may that peace allow us to celebrate this precious gift of life that God has given us all.”
Jimmy Jam reflected on the album’s significance, noting, “It’s an honor to be here tonight, particularly as we recognize an album it means so much to us.” He explained that when they created Rhythm Nation, they were responding to social issues they observed. “This album, it was a big commercial success, but even better than that, it changed lives, and so did Janet.”
He underscored Jackson’s influence on contemporary music, particularly regarding female empowerment, saying, “The message still resonates. It’s a reminder that music can heal, unite and inspire us to change.” He concluded by thanking the Recording Academy and acknowledging Jackson’s vision.
Ann & Nancy Wilson Revisit Heart’s Classic Debut
Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart brought renewed energy to their classic hits, “Magic Man,” “Dreamboat Annie,” and “Crazy on You,” during their performance at the Grammy Hall of Fame event. The songs have been staples since the release of their debut album, Dreamboat Annie, in August 1975.
Ann extended her gratitude to event producer Ken Ehrlich, their lawyer Don Passman, and producer Mike Flicker, while Nancy acknowledged the contributions of past band members like Howard Leese and Roger Fisher, saying, “These are the original gypsy tribe that started the whole thing.”
She expressed appreciation for their collaborative spirit, adding, “We did this together, and the beautiful poetry and music that we made together still resonates to this day.”
Lucinda Williams’ Inspirational Message
Lucinda Williams took the stage to perform two songs from her influential 1998 album, Car Wheels on a Gravel Road, considered pivotal in the Americana genre. She showcased “Can’t Let Go” and the album’s title track.
The album won a Grammy for best contemporary folk album at a time when the Grammys had no Americana category. Host Anthony Mason highlighted Williams’ transformative influence on subsequent artists like Jason Isbell and Brandi Carlile.
In her acceptance speech, Williams remarked on her place in music history, stating, “They said my music fell in the cracks between country and rock, which later became known as Americana. Don’t give up if your music falls between the cracks. That’s where it’s supposed to be.”
She concluded by reflecting on the significance of recognition, saying, “It just feels really good to be recognized for what you do and not how many records you sell.”
Norah Jones Performs Ray Charles Songs
Norah Jones received the Ray Charles Architect of Sound Award at the event, succeeding Jon Batiste. Jones, who collaborated with Charles on their Grammy-winning track “Here We Go Again,” performed two of his classic songs: “Seven Spanish Angels” and “Hallelujah, I Love Her So.”
Expressing her emotional connection to Charles, Jones said, “When I met Ray, I burst into tears. This means so much. This is very sweet, and it’s a great honor.” She shared a personal anecdote about her mother’s admiration for Charles, noting, “His music is everything to me, and I wouldn’t be anything without listening to him.”
Selena Honored for 1994’s “Amor Prohibido”
Isabel Marie performed Selena’s “No Me Queda Más,” a memorable ballad from the late star’s acclaimed 1994 album, Amor Prohibido.
Suzette Quintanilla-Arriaga, Selena’s older sister, accepted the award on her behalf. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Grammy Hall of Fame for acknowledging Amor Prohibido, saying, “I just want to express on behalf of Latinos our immense gratitude.”
After thanking key collaborators, she honored Selena’s enduring legacy, stating, “I want to show love to what Selena represents, still to this day, so many years later. A shout out to my sister, Selena, who will forever be remembered.”
Father-Daughter Duo Fyütch & Aura V Freshen a Children’s Classic
Fyütch and Aura V performed a rendition of Ella Jenkins’ “You’ll Sing a Song and I’ll Sing a Song.” The performance featured a nostalgic clip of Jenkins on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood before transitioning to the live duet.
The duo won a Grammy for their album Harmony, recognized as the best children’s music album. Their modern take on the classic began in a traditional nursery-rhyme style until 8-year-old Aura V suggested a faster tempo, resulting in a hip-hop interpretation that updated the 1966 song for today’s audience.
Taylor Hanson Scores on a Difficult Assignment
Taylor Hanson, known for the 1997 hit “MMMBop,” showcased his growth as an artist with a cover of Nick Drake’s “Pink Moon,” the title track from the English musician’s final studio album. Initially met with mixed reactions, the album has gained recognition over the years.
Warner Records’ Co-Chairmen Accept Award, Teddy Swims & Josh Groban Perform
Aaron Bay-Schuck, co-chairman and CEO of Warner Records Group, addressed the audience about his vision for the storied label, saying, “When we took over the leadership of Warner Records in 2018, we knew we needed to reposition the company for the future, but we wanted first to acknowledge the past.”
He praised the label’s historic roster, which includes iconic figures like Prince and Madonna, remarking on their fearless creativity and commitment to their artistry. Bay-Schuck emphasized a continued focus on talent, quality, and artist development as key priorities moving forward.
Tom Corson, co-chairman and COO of Warner Records Group, also spoke at the event. Teddy Swims and Josh Groban entertained the crowd with performances of their respective songs, with Swims delivering “Mister Know It All” and his hit “Lose Control,” while Groban showcased tracks from his new album, Cinematic.
